Business Development Manager

Discount Rentals Ltd T/A Discount Car Rentals has several branches across New Zealand. We are now seeking a Business Development Manager to join us. This is a full-time role requiring at least 30 hours per week, and the workplace for this role is in Christchurch.

Responsibilities and Accountabilities

This role is responsible for planning, organising, directing, and coordinating the company’s business development, sales, and marketing activities to increase rental revenue, expand business partnerships, and strengthen its position in the New Zealand car rental market.

Key Responsibilities

1. Business Development and Sales Strategy: Develop and direct sales and business development plans for the company’s car rental services, setting revenue and customer acquisition targets and coordinating their implementation across branches.

2. Market Research and Growth Opportunities: Lead research into travel demand, customer preferences, competitor offerings, and seasonal rental trends to identify opportunities in leisure, corporate, and long-term vehicle rentals.

3. Business Partnerships and Sales Channels: Develop and manage relationships with travel agencies, accommodation providers, tourism operators, and corporate clients, establishing referral arrangements and distribution channels that generate rental bookings.

4. Commercial Negotiations and Key Accounts: Lead negotiations on corporate rental agreements, partner rates, and commercial terms within delegated authority, and oversee key accounts to support profitable, ongoing business relationships.

5. Pricing and Rental Packages: Develop pricing proposals, promotional offers, and rental packages in consultation with management and branch teams, taking account of market demand, fleet availability, operating costs, and profitability.

6. Marketing and Brand Development: Direct marketing campaigns and promotional activities across relevant online and partner channels, ensuring consistent brand positioning and assessing their contribution to enquiries, bookings, and revenue.

7. Customer Retention and Loyalty: Establish customer retention and account development strategies, using customer feedback and booking trends to improve service offerings, encourage repeat rentals, and strengthen the company’s reputation.

8. Budget and Sales Performance Management: Prepare and manage approved business development and marketing budgets, monitor sales results and campaign returns, and report performance against targets to senior management with recommendations for improvement.

9. Branch Coordination and Sales Guidance: Coordinate sales initiatives with branch managers and relevant staff, provide guidance on business development priorities, and ensure promotional commitments and partner agreements can be delivered within operational capacity.

The successful candidate must have:

• At least two years of relevant work experience, OR a relevant bachelor’s degree at NZQCF Level 7 or above.
• Strong commercial awareness and the ability to develop and implement sales and business development strategies.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship management skills.
• The ability to analyse market information, prepare budgets, and monitor business performance.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities independently.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to coordinate effectively with management, branch teams, and external partners.
• A proactive approach, attention to detail, and a commitment to customer service and workplace safety.